PROGRAMME
The Wairarapa Balloon Festival is a free must-see family fun event, that will take place over Easter, from 17 – 21 April 2025.
The skies will come alive once again, with five days of morning ascensions, otherwise know as lift offs, at different Wairarapa towns each day, providing a joyful and vibrant display in the skies above. Don't miss the Family Carnival - the highlight of the 2025 Balloon Festival - taking place on Saturday 19 April.
PLAN YOUR WEEKEND AROUND THE ASCENSIONS
An Ascension is the breathtaking moment when a hot air balloon lifts off into the sky, carried by the morning breeze. It’s a truly magical experience, and the best time for takeoff is at sunrise - so set your alarms, bundle up warm, and get ready to witness something unforgettable!
Be There for the Action!
The exact take off location will be announced soon, but here’s what you can expect:
-
Watch as the balloons come to life, hearing the roar of the burners as they inflate.
-
Get up close and personal with the pilots and their stunning balloons.
-
Experience the wonder as the sky fills with colourful giants floating gracefully above.
Can’t Make It to the Ascension?
No worries! Simply step outside in your dressing gown, cuppa in hand, and look up - you might just spot the balloons drifting across the Wairarapa sky!
Exact lift off points to be announced, however please note ascensions are very reliant on the weather so alway stay tune to our facebook page for all the latest information.
Thursday 17 April - Masterton Welcome Flight6.30am - Sponsored by Masterton District Council
Exact location of ascension TBC
Friday 18 April - Carterton Mass Ascension 6.30am - Sponsored by Carterton District Council
Carrington Park
Saturday 19 April - Greytown 6.30am - Sponsored by Greytown Community Board
Soldiers Memorial Park
Sunday 20 April - Martinborough 6.30am - Sponsored by Martinborough Community Board
Martinborough Golf Club
Monday 21 April - WBS Free flight - Sponsored by Wairarapa Building Society
Mystery location to be announced
